Leading end assemblies for movable partitions including diagonal members, movable partitions including leading end assemblies and related methods

TECHNICAL FIELD

p-0002Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to diagonal members for movable partitions and related systems and methods. In particular, embodiments of the disclosure relate to diagonal members coupled to leading end assemblies of movable partitions where the diagonal members enable deflection of a portion of the leading end assemblies.

BACKGROUND

p-0003Movable partitions are utilized in numerous situations and environments for a variety of purposes. Such partitions may include, for example, a movable partition comprising foldable or collapsible panels configured to enclose or subdivide a room or other area. Often such partitions may be utilized simply for purposes of versatility in being able to subdivide a single large room into multiple smaller rooms. The subdivision of a larger area may be desired, for example, to accommodate multiple groups or meetings simultaneously. In other applications, such partitions may be utilized for noise control depending, for example, on the activities taking place in a given room or portion thereof

p-0004Movable partitions may also be used to provide a security barrier, a fire barrier, or both a security barrier and a fire barrier. For example, when implemented as a fire barrier, movable partitions may be constructed to meet certain specifications relating to fire resistance and may be utilized as fire barrier doors in condominiums, apartments, office buildings, high-rise buildings, casinos, malls, or any other location where desired or required by fire codes. The movable partitions are normally open and, when a fire is sensed, are automatically closed. In such a case, the partition barrier may be configured to automatically close upon the occurrence of a predetermined event such as the actuation of an associated alarm. For example, one or more accordion or similar folding-type partitions may be used as a security barrier, a fire barrier, or both a security barrier and a fire barrier wherein each partition is formed with a plurality of panels connected to one another with hinges. The hinged connection of the panels allows the partition to fold and collapse into a compact unit for purposes of storage when not deployed. The partition may be stored in a pocket formed in the wall of a building when in a retracted or folded state. When the partition is deployed to subdivide a single large room into multiple smaller rooms, secure an area during a fire, or for any other reason, the partition may be extended along an overhead track, which is often located above the movable partition in a header assembly, until the partition extends a desired distance across the room.

p-0005When deployed, a leading end of the movable partition, often defined by a component known as a lead post, complementarily engages a receptacle in a fixed structure, such as a wall, or engages a mating receptacle of another door. Such a receptacle may be referred to as a striker, door jamb or a door post when formed in a fixed structure, or as a mating lead post when formed in another movable partition. It is desirable that the lead post be substantially aligned with the mating receptacle such that the movable partition may be completely closed and an appropriate seal formed between the movable partition and the mating receptacle.

p-0006When implemented as an automatic door system including, for example, a motor and a control system, the movable partition often includes various sensors and switches to assist in the control of the movable partition. For example, a conventional automatic movable partition, when used as a fire barrier, may include a button that a user may press to cease movement of the door or may include a control system that can sense a load applied to the motor driving the movable partition resulting from an obstruction blocking the path of the movable partition while the movable partition is closing.

BRIEF SUMMARY

p-0007In some embodiments, the present disclosure includes a leading end assembly for a movable partition. The leading end assembly includes a trolley for moving the leading end assembly along a track of a movable partition, a leading structure coupled to the trolley, and a diagonal member extending from the trolley at an oblique angle to the track. The diagonal member comprises at least one movable feature enabling the leading structure to displace from an initial position to a displaced position. At least one sensor is configured to sense movement of the leading structure between the initial position and the displaced position.

p-0008In additional embodiments, the present disclosure includes a movable partition system comprising a plurality of hingedly coupled panels movably coupled to a track and a leading end assembly coupled to at least one panel of the plurality of hingedly coupled panels. The leading end assembly includes a trolley movably coupled to the track and a leading structure suspended from and coupled to the trolley where at least one coupling between the leading structure and the trolley enables the leading structure to rotate relative to the trolley. The leading end assembly also includes a sensor configured to sense rotation of the leading structure relative to the trolley.

p-0009In yet additional embodiments, the present disclosure includes a method of operating a movable partition. The method includes moving at least a portion of a movable partition along a path from a retracted position to an extended position with a motor, rotating a leading structure of the movable partition about a coupling to displace at least a portion of the leading structure from an initial position to a displaced position, using a sensor to sense rotation of the leading structure, and ceasing movement of the movable partition in response to a signal generated by the sensor.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

p-0010While the specification concludes with claims particularly pointing out and distinctly claiming what are regarded as embodiments of the present disclosure, the advantages of embodiments of the disclosure may be more readily ascertained from the description of example embodiments of the disclosure set forth below when read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

p-0011<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> is a perspective view of an embodiment of a movable partition system including a leading end assembly in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

p-0012<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2A</figref>, <b>2</b>B, and <b>2</b>C are elevation views of a leading end assembly of a movable partition system including a diagonal member in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

p-0013<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref> is a perspective view of a diagonal member including a sensor for use with a movable partition such as that shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure;

p-0014<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> is an enlarged, cross-sectional view of a portion of the diagonal member shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>;

p-0015<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> is an enlarged view of another portion of the diagonal member shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>; and

p-0016<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of a method of operating a movable partition such as that shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

p-0017Illustrations presented herein are not meant to be actual views of any particular device, assembly, system, or method, but are merely idealized representations which are employed to describe embodiments of the present disclosure. Additionally, elements common between figures may retain the same numerical designation.

p-0018Referring to <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>, a system <b>100</b> is shown, which may also be referred to as a movable partition system <b>100</b>, including a movable partition <b>102</b> in the form of an accordion-type door. The movable partition <b>102</b> may be used as a barrier (e.g., a security barrier, a fire barrier, or both a security barrier and a fire barrier). In other embodiments, the movable partition <b>102</b> may be used, for example, to subdivide a relatively larger space into relatively smaller spaces (e.g., rooms or areas). The movable partition <b>102</b> may be controlled (e.g., automatically controlled) to move between an extended position to a retracted position by a control system and motor (not shown) that may be located proximate to the movable partition system <b>100</b>, in a portion of the movable partition system <b>100</b>, or in a location separate from the movable partition system <b>100</b>. The movable partition <b>102</b> may be formed with a plurality of panels <b>106</b> that are connected to one another with hinges or other hinge-like members <b>104</b> to form a pleated (i.e., a plicated) structure. The movable partition <b>102</b> is engaged with a track (e.g., suspended from an overhead track <b>112</b>) along which the movable partition <b>102</b> moves as the movable partition <b>102</b> is extended (i.e., closed) and retracted (i.e., opened). The hinged connection of the panels <b>106</b> allows the movable partition <b>102</b> to be compactly stored in a movable partition storage area such as, for example, a storage pocket <b>108</b> formed in a wall <b>114</b>A of a building when in a retracted or folded state.

p-0019To deploy the movable partition <b>102</b> to an extended position, the movable partition <b>102</b> is moved along the overhead track <b>112</b> to an adjoining structure positioned at an end portion of the overhead track <b>112</b>. A leading end of the movable partition <b>102</b> may include a leading end assembly <b>110</b> having one or more of the panels <b>106</b> coupled thereto. For example, an end of the panels <b>106</b> forming the movable partition <b>102</b> may be coupled to the leading end assembly <b>110</b>. The panels <b>106</b> may be coupled to the leading end assembly <b>110</b> in any suitable manner including, but not limited to, using adhesives, tongue and groove joints, and fasteners (e.g., screws, bolts, rivets, etc.).

p-0020The leading end assembly <b>110</b> may be configured to engage with an adjoining structure such as, for example, an opposing wall <b>114</b>B, a door jamb, or a leading end assembly of another movable partition (not shown). In some embodiments, the leading end assembly <b>110</b> may be similar to the leading end assemblies described in, for example, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/497,310, which was filed Jul. 2, 2009 and is entitled “Movable Partitions, Leading End Assemblies for Movable Partitions and Related Methods,” which is assigned to the assignee hereof and the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by this reference. For example, a portion of the leading end assembly <b>110</b> (e.g., a leading structure <b>122</b> (<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2A</figref>)) may be sized to form a barrier at an open end of the pocket <b>108</b> (e.g., the end of the pocket <b>108</b> through which the movable partition <b>102</b> may be extended along the overhead track <b>112</b>) when the movable partition <b>102</b> is in a retracted state. In some embodiments, the leading structure <b>122</b> (<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2A</figref>) may form a barrier substantially covering the open end of the pocket <b>108</b>. In some embodiments, a leading surface <b>124</b> (<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2B and 2C</figref>) of the leading end assembly <b>110</b> may be substantially flush with a portion of the pocket <b>108</b> (e.g., the walls forming the pocket <b>108</b>) when the movable partition <b>102</b> is retracted in a storage position within the pocket <b>108</b>.

p-0021In other embodiments, the leading end assembly <b>110</b> of the movable partition system <b>100</b> may comprise a lead post such as, for example, the lead posts described in U.S. Patent No. 7,845,386, issued Dec. 10, 2010 and is entitled “Movable Partitions, Components for Movable Partitions and Related Methods,” which is assigned to the assignee hereof and the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by this reference.

p-0022While the embodiment of the movable partition <b>102</b> shown and described with reference to <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref> contains a single accordion-type door, additional embodiments of the present disclosure may include multiple doors. For example, a partition may include two doors (e.g., accordion-type doors) configured to extend across a space and join together to partition a space.

p-0023<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2A and 2B</figref> are elevation views (i.e., a trailing surface view as discussed below and a side view taken transverse to the trailing surface, respectively) of a leading end assembly for a movable partition system such as, for example, the movable partition system <b>100</b> shown and described with reference to <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>. As shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2A and 2B</figref>, the leading end assembly <b>110</b> may include a component for coupling (e.g., movably coupling) the leading end assembly <b>110</b> to an adjoining structure. In some embodiments, the leading end assembly <b>110</b> may include a component that suspends the leading end assembly <b>110</b> from the overhead track <b>112</b> (<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>). For example, the leading end assembly <b>110</b> may be coupled to at least one support trolley <b>116</b> having trolley wheels <b>118</b> that are received in a portion (e.g., a channel) of the overhead track <b>112</b> to suspend the trolley <b>116</b> and leading end assembly <b>110</b> from the track <b>112</b>. The trolley wheels <b>118</b> of the support trolley <b>116</b> may move along the track <b>112</b> by the rolling of the trolley wheels <b>118</b>. The support trolley <b>116</b> may include a connection to a chain drive driven by a motor, or, in some embodiments, the support trolley <b>116</b> may include a motor, for example, an electric motor connected to a power source to displace the leading end assembly <b>110</b> along the overhead track <b>112</b>.

p-0024The leading end assembly <b>110</b> may comprise a leading portion (e.g., a leading surface <b>124</b> of the leading structure <b>122</b>) that may be positioned adjacent to (e.g., in abutment with) an adjoining structure such as, for example, an opposing wall <b>114</b>B (<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>) or the leading end assembly of another movable partition (not shown). As used herein, “leading surface” means a distal surface of the leading end assembly <b>110</b> (e.g., the surface of an element located furthest from the point of attachment with the panels <b>106</b> of the movable partition <b>102</b> (<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>)). The leading end assembly <b>110</b> may further comprise a trailing portion such as, for example, a trailing surface <b>126</b> of the leading structure <b>122</b> positioned opposite to the leading surface <b>124</b>. As used herein, “trailing surface” means a proximal surface of the leading end assembly <b>110</b> (e.g., the surface of an element located at the point of attachment with the panels <b>106</b> of the movable partition <b>102</b> (<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>)).

p-0025The leading end assembly <b>110</b> may include a diagonal member <b>120</b> that is coupled to the leading end assembly <b>110</b> and the support trolley <b>116</b> (e.g., at an oblique angle to the leading end assembly <b>110</b>, the support trolley <b>116</b>, or both). For example, the diagonal member <b>120</b> may be coupled to a middle portion of the trailing surface <b>126</b> of the leading structure <b>122</b> (e.g., at a bracket <b>128</b> positioned between vertical ends of the leading structure <b>122</b>)and to a portion of the support trolley <b>116</b>. It is noted that as used herein, the term “vertical” references a vertical direction of the leading end assembly <b>110</b> as it is installed in a movable partition system <b>100</b> (i.e., vertically between a floor <b>101</b> and a ceiling <b>103</b> shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>). In such a configuration, the diagonal member <b>120</b>, the support trolley <b>116</b>, and a portion of the leading structure <b>122</b> may form a triangle to structurally support the leading end assembly <b>110</b>.

p-0026One or more portions of the leading end assembly <b>110</b> may be configured to enable movement (e.g., rotational movement, translational movement, combinations thereof) of a portion of the leading end assembly <b>110</b> relative to another portion of the leading end assembly <b>110</b>. For example, one or more portions of the leading end assembly <b>110</b> (e.g., one or more couplings between the portions of the leading end assembly <b>110</b>) may be configured to enable the leading structure <b>122</b> to move relative to a component attaching the leading end assembly <b>110</b> to an adjoining structure (e.g., the support trolley <b>116</b>). For example, an attachment point such as, coupling pin <b>148</b>, between the support trolley <b>116</b> and the leading structure <b>122</b> may enable the leading structure <b>122</b> to move relative to the support trolley <b>116</b>. In some embodiments, the leading structure <b>122</b> may move from a first, initial position as shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2B</figref> to a second, displaced position as shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2C</figref>. The leading end assembly <b>110</b> may include a sensor (e.g., sensor <b>312</b> as discussed in greater detail below with reference to <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 3 and 5</figref>) configured to sense movement of the leading end assembly <b>110</b> (e.g., movement of the leading structure <b>122</b> from the initial position to the displaced position).

p-0027Referring to <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2B</figref>, the support trolley <b>116</b>, the diagonal member <b>120</b>, and the leading structure <b>122</b> may be coupled together such that the leading structure <b>122</b> may move relative to the support trolley <b>116</b>. For example, couplings (e.g., couplings <b>138</b>, <b>142</b>) may each comprise an attachment point enabling motion between the coupled members (e.g., a coupling pin).

p-0028The diagonal member <b>120</b> may comprise at least one movable feature <b>130</b> that enables displacement of at least of a portion of the diagonal member <b>120</b>, thereby, enabling the leading structure <b>122</b> to move relative to the support trolley <b>116</b>. For example, the movable feature <b>130</b> may comprise at least one union such as, for example, a telescoping portion or movable coupling that enables translational movement, rotational movement, or combinations thereof.

p-0029As shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2B</figref>, the leading end assembly <b>110</b> may exhibit a first length L<b>1</b> measured between coupling <b>138</b> and coupling <b>142</b> (e.g., the length of the diagonal member <b>120</b> measured between coupling <b>138</b> and coupling <b>142</b>). In some embodiments, the first length L<b>1</b> may be chosen to create a substantially 90 degree angle (e.g., angle θ₁) between the leading surface <b>124</b> of the leading structure <b>122</b> and one or more of the support trolley <b>116</b>, the track <b>112</b> (<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>), and the floor <b>101</b> (<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>). In other embodiments, the first length L<b>1</b> may be chosen to create an angle of less than or greater than 90 degrees between the leading surface <b>124</b> and the track <b>112</b>.

p-0030Referring now to <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2C</figref>, a force <b>200</b> may be applied to the leading structure <b>122</b> in a direction substantially opposite a direction of intended travel <b>202</b> of the leading end assembly <b>110</b>. For example, force <b>200</b> may result from an obstruction in the path of the movable partition <b>102</b> (shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>) as the support trolley <b>116</b> and the leading end assembly <b>110</b> move along the overhead track <b>112</b> (<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>) from a retracted position to a extended position. Force <b>200</b> may cause movement of the leading structure <b>122</b> about coupling pin <b>148</b>, thereby, imparting a compressive force to the diagonal member <b>120</b>. The movable feature <b>130</b> of the diagonal member <b>120</b> enables a portion of the diagonal member <b>120</b> to displace (e.g., translate, rotate) under the force imparted to the diagonal member <b>120</b> by force <b>200</b> on the leading structure <b>122</b>. For example, in embodiments where the movable feature <b>130</b> comprises a telescoping portion, a portion of the diagonal member <b>120</b> may displace into another portion of the diagonal member <b>120</b>, as described in further detail below. Such displacement may reduce the length of the diagonal member <b>120</b> from the first length L<b>1</b> shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2B</figref> to a second, lesser length L<b>2</b> shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2C</figref>. The reduction of the length of the diagonal member <b>120</b> will enable the leading structure <b>122</b> to pivot about coupling pin <b>148</b>. Diagonal member <b>120</b> may also pivot about coupling <b>138</b> and coupling <b>142</b> as the angle between the leading structure <b>122</b> and the support trolley <b>116</b> changes (e.g., decreases) due to rotation of the leading structure <b>122</b>. For example, angle θ₂in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2C</figref> may be less than angle θ₁in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2B</figref>.

p-0031In other embodiments, the movable feature <b>130</b> may comprise a coupling enabling rotational displacement (e.g., a coupling or hinge enabling a first portion of the diagonal member <b>120</b> to rotate relative to a second portion of diagonal member <b>120</b>). In such an embodiment, the distance between coupling <b>142</b> and coupling <b>138</b> may be reduced as the movable feature <b>130</b> of the diagonal member <b>120</b> translates in a direction substantially perpendicular to leading structure <b>122</b>, thereby, reducing the distance between coupling <b>142</b> and coupling <b>138</b> (i.e., length L<b>2</b>).

p-0032In some embodiments, the movable feature <b>130</b> may enable the leading end assembly <b>110</b> to at least partially conform to an adjoining structure. For example, force <b>200</b> may result from contact of the leading surface <b>124</b> against an opposite wall <b>114</b>B (shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>), or another contact surface such as a door jamb or a leading surface of another movable partition assembly. For example, if the opposite wall or other contact surface is not parallel to the leading surface <b>124</b>, the telescoping portion of the diagonal member <b>120</b> enables rotation of the leading structure <b>122</b> about coupling pin <b>148</b> until the leading surface <b>124</b> is substantially parallel with (e.g., flush with, plumb with) the opposite wall or other contact surface.

p-0033In some embodiments, the leading structure <b>122</b> may be attached to the support trolley <b>116</b> with an elastic joint (e.g., comprising a metal, a metal alloy, a polymer material, or other materials having sufficient strength and elasticity) chosen to permit elastic deformation as the leading structure <b>122</b> displaces responsive to an applied force (e.g., force <b>200</b>). The movable feature <b>130</b> of the diagonal member <b>120</b> may enable displacement of the leading structure <b>122</b> to a point at which the distance between coupling <b>138</b> and coupling <b>142</b> reaches a predetermined minimum length, such as length L<b>2</b> shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2C</figref>. The minimum length may be selected to enable deformation of the elastic joint to a point before which plastic deformation occurs in the joint.

p-0034In some embodiments, one or more portions of the leading end assembly <b>110</b> may be configured to bias the leading structure <b>122</b> in the initial position (e.g., as shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2B</figref>) such that, when the leading structure <b>122</b> is displaced (e.g., by the force <b>200</b> applied to the leading structure <b>122</b> as shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2C</figref>), the leading structure <b>122</b> may be forced back to the initial position. For example, as discussed below in greater detail, a portion of the leading end assembly <b>110</b> (e.g., the movable feature <b>130</b> of the diagonal member <b>120</b>) may comprise a biasing element (e.g., a spring).

p-0035Referring now to <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 3</figref>, a diagonal member <b>300</b> is shown in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. Diagonal member <b>300</b> comprises a first member <b>302</b> and a second member <b>304</b>. Each of the first member <b>302</b> and the second member <b>304</b> comprise ends with couplings <b>306</b> and <b>308</b>, for example, for coupling with the leading structure <b>122</b> and support trolley <b>116</b>, respectively. The diagonal member <b>300</b> includes a movable feature such as, for example, a telescoping portion <b>310</b>. For example, the first and second members <b>302</b>, <b>304</b> may connect at the telescoping portion <b>310</b> where a first portion of the diagonal member <b>300</b> (e.g., a portion of the first member <b>302</b>) is received within another portion of the diagonal member <b>300</b> (e.g., the second member <b>304</b>). As discussed below in greater detail, the portion of the first member <b>302</b> received in the second member <b>304</b> enables the length of diagonal member <b>300</b> to be decreased (e.g., from L<b>1</b> to L<b>2</b> as shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIGS. 2B and 2C</figref>) enabling the leading structure <b>122</b> of the leading end assembly <b>110</b> (<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2C</figref>) to displace.

p-0036The diagonal member <b>300</b> may include a sensor <b>312</b> for sensing movement of the leading end assembly <b>110</b> (<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2C</figref>). For example, sensor <b>312</b> may be positioned proximate to the diagonal member <b>300</b> (e.g., coupled to the first member <b>302</b>) in order to be responsive to movement of the diagonal member <b>300</b>. For example, the sensor <b>312</b> may be responsive to a telescoping action of the telescoping portion <b>310</b> when an applied force displaces the leading structure <b>122</b> of the leading end assembly <b>110</b> (<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2C</figref>). In some embodiments, sensor <b>312</b> may communicate with the motor configured to drive the leading end assembly <b>110</b> along the overhead track <b>112</b> (<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>). For example, sensor <b>312</b> may signal the motor to reduce speed, stop, reverse direction, or combinations thereof in response to a displacement of the telescoping portion <b>310</b>.

p-0037<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> is a cross-sectional view of a telescoping portion <b>310</b> of the diagonal member <b>300</b>. The telescoping portion <b>310</b> may be formed by the first member <b>302</b> comprising a protrusion <b>402</b> and the second member <b>304</b> comprising an aperture <b>404</b> that at least partially receives the protrusion <b>402</b> of the first member <b>302</b> therein. The first and second members <b>302</b>, <b>304</b> that form the protrusion <b>402</b> and aperture <b>404</b> may comprise substantially complementary cross-sectional shapes (e.g., a square or other rectangle, a circle, regular or irregular polygons, etc.) as viewed on a plane normal to the length of the telescoping portion <b>310</b>. The protrusion <b>402</b> of the first member <b>302</b> may comprise a cross-sectional dimension that is marginally smaller than a cross-sectional dimension of the aperture <b>404</b> of the second member <b>304</b>, to enable the protrusion <b>402</b> of the first member <b>302</b> to slide freely within the aperture <b>404</b> of the second member <b>304</b>. One or more of the portions of the first member <b>302</b> forming the protrusion <b>402</b> and the portion of the second member <b>304</b> forming the aperture <b>404</b> may comprise friction reducing material, such as bronze, brass, babbitt material, a polymer material, or any other suitable low-friction materials. In some embodiments, a bushing is disposed intermediate the portion of the first member <b>302</b> forming the protrusion <b>402</b> and the portion of the second member <b>304</b> forming the aperture <b>404</b>. Other embodiments may include bearings, for example, needle bearings, disposed between the portion of the first member <b>302</b> forming the protrusion <b>402</b> and the portion of the second member <b>304</b> forming the aperture <b>404</b>.

p-0038The first member <b>302</b> and the second member <b>304</b> may be coupled together in a manner to enable the portion of the first member <b>302</b> forming the protrusion <b>402</b> to move within the portion of the second member <b>304</b> forming the aperture <b>404</b>. For example, one or more of the first member <b>302</b> and the second member <b>304</b> of the diagonal member <b>300</b> may have slots <b>412</b> formed therein (e.g., in opposing sides of the second member <b>304</b>). A pin <b>410</b> may be disposed through the slots <b>412</b> in the second member <b>304</b> and through holes <b>414</b> in the first member <b>302</b>. The pin <b>410</b> and the first member <b>302</b> may slide along the length of the slots <b>412</b> to enable movement of the first and second members <b>302</b>, <b>304</b> relative to one another. Contact between ends of the slots <b>412</b> and pin <b>410</b> prevents extension or retraction beyond the translational movement allowed by the length of slots <b>412</b>.

p-0039In some embodiments, the diagonal member <b>300</b> may include a biasing element <b>416</b> biasing the telescoping portion <b>310</b> to an extended position (e.g., a position where the telescoping portion <b>310</b> and diagonal member <b>300</b> are at a length, such as length L<b>1</b> in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2B</figref>). For example, biasing element <b>416</b> may comprise a spring (e.g., a compression spring, an extension spring, or other suitable biasing elements). Biasing element <b>416</b> may abut an end portion <b>418</b> within the second member <b>304</b> forming a portion of the aperture <b>404</b>, and may also abut an end portion <b>420</b> of the protrusion <b>402</b> of the first member <b>302</b>. In some embodiments, the biasing element <b>416</b> may apply a force between the end portion <b>418</b> of the second member <b>304</b> and the end portion <b>420</b> of the first member <b>302</b> to maintain the telescoping portion <b>310</b> at a maximum length, such as length L<b>1</b> in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2B</figref>.

p-0040The biasing element <b>416</b> may be chosen to determine the movement of the telescoping portion <b>310</b> and corresponding movement of the leading structure <b>122</b> (as in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2C</figref>) in response to an applied force (e.g., the amount of force applied to the leading structure <b>122</b> required to move the telescoping portion <b>310</b> a certain distance). For example, the biasing element <b>416</b> may comprise a length greater than the maximum distance between the second member end portion <b>418</b> and the first member end portion <b>420</b>, thereby, placing the biasing element <b>416</b> in a preloaded condition when installed in the telescoping portion <b>310</b>. In such a configuration, telescoping portion <b>310</b> requires application of a minimum force (equal in magnitude to the difference between the length of the biasing element <b>416</b> in an extended length and the maximum distance between end portions <b>418</b> and <b>420</b>, multiplied by the spring constant of the biasing element <b>416</b>) before displacement occurs. In other embodiments, the extended length of the biasing element <b>416</b> may be substantially the same as a maximum length between the first member end portion <b>420</b> and second member end portion <b>418</b>, and the telescoping portion <b>310</b> will move in proportion to any applied force as determined by the spring constant of the biasing element <b>416</b>. In some embodiments, the end portion <b>418</b> of the second member <b>304</b> may comprise an adjustment feature <b>422</b>. For example, the adjustment feature <b>422</b> may include a threaded member enabling adjustment of the position of the end portion <b>418</b> of the second member <b>304</b>. In such an embodiment, the maximum length between the first member end portion <b>420</b> and second member end portion <b>418</b> (i.e., the stiffness of the biasing element <b>416</b>) may be adjusted by the adjustment feature <b>422</b>.

p-0041It is noted that while the embodiment of <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 4</figref> illustrates that the pin <b>410</b> remains stationary with respect to first member <b>302</b>, and slides in slots <b>412</b> formed in second member <b>304</b>, in other embodiments, pin <b>410</b> may remain stationary with respect to the second member <b>304</b> and slide in slots formed in the first member <b>302</b>. In yet other embodiments, an extension coil spring may be connected between the pin <b>410</b> and the end portion <b>420</b> of the first member <b>302</b>. As second member <b>304</b> is forced toward the first member <b>302</b> responsive to an applied force, a distance between the pin <b>410</b> and the end portion <b>420</b> of the first member <b>302</b> increases, extending the spring. The length and spring constant of the extension coil spring may be chosen as explained above. In yet other embodiments, the diagonal member <b>300</b> may include a damping mechanism such as, for example, an elastomeric or fluid damper, configured to dampen the movement of the telescoping portion <b>310</b> and prevent the joint from returning to an extended position too quickly after compression under an applied force.

p-0042<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 5</figref> is an enlarged perspective view of the telescoping portion <b>310</b> of the diagonal member <b>300</b> including a sensor <b>312</b>. Sensor <b>312</b> may include an electrical switch <b>500</b> and an actuator rod <b>502</b> biased in an initial position by spring <b>508</b>. A protruding tab <b>504</b> affixed to an end portion <b>506</b> of the second member <b>304</b> may contact the actuator rod <b>502</b>. As second member <b>304</b> is forced toward first member <b>302</b> responsive to an applied force (e.g., a force applied to a leading structure <b>122</b> (<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2C</figref>) connected to the second member <b>304</b>), tab <b>504</b> presses on actuator rod <b>502</b> and causes actuator rod <b>502</b> to move and compress spring <b>508</b>. As the actuator rod <b>502</b> is displaced, a portion of the actuator rod <b>502</b> may actuate the electrical switch <b>500</b>. For example, an actuator <b>512</b> of the electrical switch <b>500</b> may be positioned proximate to a reduced diameter portion <b>510</b> of the actuator rod <b>502</b>. As the actuator rod <b>502</b> is displaced, the diameter portion <b>510</b> of the actuator rod <b>502</b> translates relative to the actuator <b>512</b> of the electrical switch <b>500</b> and a shoulder area <b>514</b> of the actuator rod <b>502</b> may displace the actuator <b>512</b> in order to actuate the electrical switch <b>500</b>. As actuator <b>512</b> displaces, switch <b>500</b> may signal an electric drive motor to slow, stop, or reverse movement of a leading end assembly of a movable partition.

p-0043In some embodiments, the movable partition system <b>100</b> may include control systems as described in, for example, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/165,165, filed Jun. 21, 2011, now U.S. Patent 8,544,524, issued Oct. 1, 2013, and entitled “Leading End Assemblies for Movable Partitions Including Sensor Assemblies, Movable Partition Systems Including Sensor Assemblies and Related Methods,” which is assigned to the assignee hereof and the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by this reference. In some embodiments, the leading end assembly <b>110</b> may include sensor assemblies such as those described in, for example, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/501,255, filed Jul. 10, 2009, now U.S. Patent 8,279,862, issued Oct. 2, 2012, and entitled “Motor Control Systems, Foldable Partitions Employing Motor Control Systems, Methods of Monitoring the Operation of Electric Motors and Foldable Partitions,” which is assigned to the assignee hereof and the disclosure of which is incorporated herein in its entirety by this reference.

p-0044<figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref> is a flowchart illustrating an embodiment of a method that may be used to operate a movable partition like that shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 1</figref>. As shown in <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 6</figref>, in act <b>600</b>, a method of operating a movable partition may include moving a leading end of a movable partition from a retracted position to an extended position.

p-0045In act <b>602</b>, a leading structure of the movable partition may be displaced from an initial position to a displaced position responsive to a force applied to the leading structure, for example, an object or person in the path of the leading end while the leading end is moving. Displacement of the movable partition may comprise angular displacement about a connection at a distal end of a support trolley of the leading end assembly, for example the support trolley <b>116</b> disclosed in relation to <figref idrefs="DRAWINGS">FIG. 2A</figref>. A diagonal member such as, for example, the diagonal members <b>120</b>, <b>300</b> discussed above may be disposed between the leading structure and the support trolley. The diagonal member may comprise a telescoping portion that enables angular displacement of the leading structure responsive to a force applied to the leading structure. The leading structure may displace from an initial position (e.g., a position where no external force is applied to the leading structure) to a displaced position (e.g., a position where an external force is applied and causes rotation about the connection near the support trolley and a corresponding reduction in length of the telescoping portion of the diagonal member). In some embodiments, movement of the telescoping portion may actuate a sensor, such as an electrical switch.

p-0046In act <b>604</b>, a sensor disposed proximate the telescoping portion of the diagonal member may detect the movement of the telescoping portion and corresponding displacement of the leading structure. The sensor may then signal a drive motor to cease movement of the movable partition (e.g., movement of the movable partition may be halted, movement of the movable partition may be reversed, or combinations thereof).

p-0047In act <b>606</b>, removal of the force applied to the leading structure allows the leading structure to rotate back from the second position to the initial position. As the leading structure rotates about the joint at the support trolley, the telescoping portion of the diagonal member may return to a previous extended length.

p-0048In view of the foregoing, leading end assemblies in accordance with embodiments of the present disclosure may provide a movable partition system having enhanced sensing of obstructions in a path of a movable partition and movable partition systems having improved security and fire or noise isolation between the spaces separated by the movable partition. In particular, such leading end assemblies including one or more components enabling movement of a portion of the leading end assembly may enable the detection of displacement of a portion of a leading end assembly caused by an obstruction along the path of the movable partition. Further, enabling movement (e.g., rotation) of a portion of the leading end assembly may enable the leading end assembly to at least partially conform (e.g., become substantially flush with) a contact surface when the movable partition is in an extended position.

p-0049While the present disclosure has been described herein with respect to certain embodiments, those of ordinary skill in the art will recognize and appreciate that it is not so limited. Rather, many additions, deletions and modifications to the described embodiments may be made without departing from the scope of the disclosure as hereinafter claimed, including legal equivalents. In addition, features from one embodiment may be combined with features of another embodiment while still being encompassed within the scope of the disclosure as contemplated by the inventors.